Modeling Internal Heating of Optoelectronic Devices Using COMSOL

In this paper the heat transfer module in COMSOL is utilized to simulate internal heating of an Avalanche Photodiode due to light-induced current through a resistivity that depends on charge carrier concentrations in the device. Initial tests are done by modeling the heating process on a previously-solved silicon p-n junction as a proof of concept before advancing to a more complicated geometry. Strategies for mapping heterojunction material properties are discussed and estimates for carrier concentrations and current in place of a full carrier model solution are explored. A second model of heat power from current and voltage mapping is presented.